Buckley axed by Mariners
15 Sep 2008 - 11:20:06
Grimsby Town have sacked manager Alan Buckley after making a poor start to the new League Two season.
The Mariners have taken just two points from their six league games this season and were beaten 3-1 at home by Chester City at the weekend.
A statement for the club read: "It is with regret that the board of directors have decided, due to an extended run of poor results in the league, to relieve Alan Buckley of his managerial duties.
"Alan has been a fine ambassador for the football club and this difficult decision takes nothing away from his wonderful achievements which transpired in the club enjoying an extended stay in the Championship together with three wonderful trips to Wembley.
"We would like to express our sincere thanks to Alan and we are sure that everybody connected with the club will respect him for his magnificent achievements whilst manager.
"Assistant manager Stuart Watkiss will assume temporary charge of team affairs, while the board undertake the task of looking for a new manager with suitable qualities and skills to reverse the club's fortunes."
Buckley has enjoyed three spells in charge at Blundell Park, having previously been manager between 1988 and 1994, and 1997 and 2000.
He returned for his third stint in November 2006 following the sacking of Graham Rodger.